Leather tanning is the process of transforming raw animal hides into durable, long-lasting leather. The process involves soaking the hides in a solution of water and chemicals, which helps to remove the hair and other proteins from the hide. The hides are then treated with a variety of chemicals, such as chromium salts, to help preserve the leather and give it a desired color. The hides are then dried and stretched, and then treated with oils and waxes to give the leather a soft, supple feel. Finally, the leather is finished with a protective coating to help protect it from the elements. The entire process can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the type of leather being produced.
Leather finishing is an important step in the production of superior quality leather products. It involves the application of a variety of treatments to the leather to enhance its appearance, durability, and performance. Finishing techniques can include dyeing, embossing, buffing, burnishing, and coating. Dyeing is the process of adding color to the leather, while embossing is the process of creating a raised pattern on the leather. Buffing is the process of polishing the leather to a high shine, while burnishing is the process of rubbing the leather with a hard object to create a smooth, glossy finish. Coating is the process of applying a protective layer to the leather to protect it from dirt, moisture, and other elements. Each of these techniques can be used to create a unique look and feel for the leather product. Properly applied, these techniques can help to ensure that the leather product will last for many years.